~*~2009~*~

I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and happy New Year! One thing about a blog is, you always feel the need to say something profound and meaningful! I love to write, but I don't have the brain power to do that every posting! So, today I just want to tell everyone to keep their faith, family, and friends close; who knows what will change in 2009?....some of you may have amazing journeys, terrible tragedies, new beginnings, or just more of the same; whatever this year brings...remember to have fun, laugh a lot, and try something new! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

New Year...New Life?

Christmas is over...sadly, I love the holidays!! Oh well, onto a new year and a fresh start. I am guessing many of you are taking the time to think of "New Year's" resolutions. Are you going to lose weight, become closer to friends, be more involved at church, or are you looking to change your entire lifestyle? Is this going to be the year? How is it that every year people seem to make such large goals, but yet fail miserably after about four weeks. The answer is simple...change is hard. As people we rely on self-control, self-motivation, and self-discipline. What is a common theme among all of these words. SELF. We are human, it is in our nature to fail. We do not have to power or the capacity to change. Yes, we can change for a short time, but deep down our flaws and failures creep back up to the surface; we are left feeling defeated and powerless. The answer, stop relying on yourself! Remember you are not alone, call on God to change you. He has the power, and he is there in times of trial. Yeah, I know I might sound cliche...but it is true. Sometimes, you just have to surrender to God. Trust me, I have to tell myself this everyday! I like to have control, but I realize I need guidance, love, and support when change is difficult. Hang in there, rely on God, you can change this year!

Am I supposed to be engaged???

So I don't know if it is the water, but it seems many of my friends are getting engaged. I am so happy for them, of course, but I wonder if I am behind. I mean, I don't even have a boyfriend! I fall into spurts where I feel sorry for myself...and count all the reason's I am still signal. I start to wonder if there is something wrong with me that a guy hasn't come into my life. However, as I sit back I think it is God's protection. Many women date numerous men searching for the right one. Each time they give a piece of their heart away, which they cannot regain. Most would not admit this, but someone is always hurt when a relationship does not work out. I believe in times I am hurting and impatience I need to remember that there is someone who loves me. Jesus Christ. He thinks I am beautiful, pursues me, and loves to spend time with me. If I can learn to strengthen my relationship with him, then when it is the right time...my prince charming will come :-) And I have to remind myself I am only 22, I seem to forget how young I am! I have plenty of time!!

Thankful

Do you ever find yourself being negative, anxious, or resentful? If you say no, you are lying to yourself. I find I feel this way many times throughout the course of a day. I start thinking about all the things that I am stressed about, and things that are not seeming to go my way. I hate feeling this way...but I am human. We tend to think our problems are meant for the world to hear; however, what the world needs is not another pessimistic word. The world needs love, compassion, and the light of Christ. If you are constantly negative, then how can you enjoy all the blessings you have in your life. Think you don't have any...? I challenge you to get a piece of paper and write down at least three things that you are thankful for. Next, write down three people who you know are going through a rough time. Finally, write down what you can do to change the negative things in your life. I did, and it changed my entire thinking. Now, this isn't going to magically solve your problems...and you may feel down again, but remember this little trick (and that God is always with you)!

I'm Done! Really?

I know I haven't blogged in a while, but the past few days have been crazy. I am pleased to announce I am an official college graduate. I had already finished my student teaching, but still needed to complete a pretty extensive research paper. I just clicked save and print!!!! As I was watching the pages come out of the printer I couldn't help but think. Usually watching pages come out of a printer is boring, and annoying. However, I realized that I have attained what so many people wish to attain...a college education. Of course I am looking forward to not worrying about grades, due dates, or professors...but, I think one has to realize that college is a journey. My college experience was probably different then most of yours, but at the same time it is another season in my life that is complete. I can learn from my experiences, and continue to grow into the woman I am meant to be. At this very moment, I actually have no clue what the next year will bring. I could be living in a new city, meeting the man of my dreams, or starting a new job...it's all up in the air! I have to learn to find excitement in this time of my life. I tend to be a little controlling haha, and don't like not knowing things...but if we new everything, life would be so boring!

Christmas

Wow! So I went outside, attempting to go on a run. Only to turn around in 5 minutes...it was so windy and cold I turned back! Anyway, I went to a church Christmas play today. I love Christmas....the music,decorations, shopping, baking, and of course the family celebrations. However, I always forget what Christmas is truly about. I was reminded today that Christmas is about a precious baby layed in a lowly manger. A savior, who humbly came to Earth for you and me. He lived amongst his people, and took on the burden of sin for you and me. Christmas was never meant to become an elaborate scheme of advertisements, greed, and selfishness; it is a time where one should truly remember how amazing their father in heaven is. I ask that no one forget this, be thankful for everything that you have. Do not neglect the relationships that you have with people you love, and with Christ. Merry Christmas everyone!

So I decided to get a blog...

I have been wanting to get a blog for months, but it is one of those things you never actually sit down and do. I think it is important to have a place where you can share you ideas, struggles, and triumphs. I have a journal, but decided it is time I go "high-tech," and join the wonderful world of blogging. The one downfall of a written journal is that no one has the opportunity to relate, or connect with your experiences. I recently graduated college with a degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in mathematics, and am ready to start my life (whatever that entails). I am entering a time in my life where things are uncertain, and out of my control. I am waiting patiently to see where God leads me...sometimes it is hard to wait for the answer. However, I know it will be worth it!